The Buffalo Sabres made their NHL debut in 1970-71. Pride surrounded the team even before it first stepped on to the ice when the Sabres were awarded the first pick in the 1970 NHL Draft. With the choice, the club selected future Hall of Famer Gilbert Perreault. Despite Perreault’s 38 goals and Calder Trophy win, the Sabres missed out on the playoffs.

The Canadiens and Sabres first met on October 15, 1970, in Buffalo, with the Canadiens recording a 3-0 victory.

Montreal and Buffalo, who has yet to win a Stanley Cup, have faced off seven times in the playoffs. The Canadiens emerged victorious in four of those series, in 1973 (first round, six games), 1990 (first round, six games), 1991 (first round, six games) and 1993 (second round, four games). The Sabres won three of the matchups, in 1975 (second round, six games), 1983 (first round, three games), and 1998 (second round, four games).

The Canadiens and Sabres first met on October 15, 1970, in Buffalo, with the Canadiens recording a 3-0 victory.